🌟 About This Trip
Discover China’s most iconic landmarks and diverse natural beauty on this quintessential 10-day journey designed for first-time travelers. Begin in Beijing to explore the imperial Forbidden City and walk the Great Wall. In Xi’an, marvel at the Terracotta Army and immerse yourself in local life through a cooking class and shadow puppetry. Continue to Guilin for a breathtaking Li River cruise, and conclude in Shanghai, where historic charm on the Bund meets the modern sophistication of the Shanghai Tower.
🗓️ Itinerary Summary
| Day | Place | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 – 4 | Beijing | Forbidden City, Great Wall, Hutongs with Rickshaw Ride, Temple of Heaven |
| 5 – 6 | Xi’an | Terracotta Warriors, Local Family Visit with Cooking, Shadow Puppet Show |
| 7 – 8 | Guilin | Li River Cruise, Yangshuo Countryside Tour |
| 9 – 10 | Shanghai | The Bund, Yu Garden, Dim Sum Meal, Shanghai Tower |
🏛️ Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Welcome to Beijing, the vibrant capital of China! Upon arrival, you will be met by your local guide and transferred via private vehicle to your hotel in the heart of the city. Settle in and begin to ease into the local rhythm of this historic metropolis.
Accommodations: Beijing
Day 2: Forbidden City & Hutongs Tour
Today’s tour follows the Beijing Central Axis, a newly recognized UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the Forbidden City, observing its red walls, yellow tiles, and intricate eaves decorated with immortal figurines. Later, enjoy a rickshaw ride through the narrow alleys of the Hutongs, passing traditional courtyard houses to experience authentic local life.
Meals: B, L | Accommodations: Beijing
Day 3: Great Wall Adventure
After breakfast, drive two hours to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Take a cable car to admire breathtaking views of the wall snaking along mountain ridges. Once at the top, challenge yourself by climbing between watchtowers where soldiers once stood vigil to protect the empire.
Meals: B, L | Accommodations: Beijing
Day 4: Temple of Heaven – High-Speed Train to Xi’an
Visit the divine Temple of Heaven, used by emperors for celestial worship. Observe elderly residents practicing morning exercises and join a Tai Chi class guided by a master. Afterward, board a high-speed train for a 5-6 hour journey to the ancient capital of Xi’an.
Meals: B | Accommodations: Xi’an
Day 5: Terracotta Army & Great Tang Mall
Discover the world-famous Terracotta Army, featuring thousands of unique clay soldiers and grand bronze chariots. Witness the Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum before returning to the city for the Great Tang All Day Mall. Enjoy local snacks and artistic performances, from face-changing to traditional pipa music.
Meals: B, L | Accommodations: Xi’an
Day 6: Culinary Delights & Cultural Exploration – Flight to Guilin
Spend the morning with a local family in Xi’an, trying your hand at making authentic noodles or dumplings. Afterward, visit Gao’s Courtyard for traditional shadow puppetry and a calligraphy class. Stroll through the historic Muslim Street before transferring to the airport for your flight to the scenic city of Guilin.
Meals: B, L | Accommodations: Guilin
Day 7: Li River Cruise to Yangshuo
Embark on a scenic Li River Cruise to Yangshuo. Drift past dramatic karst peaks and lush green waters while enjoying lunch on board. Upon arrival in the afternoon, stroll along the lively West Street, a thoroughfare filled with charming cafés and local shops.
Meals: B, L | Accommodations: Yangshuo
Day 8: Yangshuo Countryside – Flight to Shanghai
Explore the enchanting Yangshuo countryside by bicycle or car. Witness idyllic villages, fertile fields, and farmers tending to their land. After soaking in the serene rural landscape, board a flight to the bustling international metropolis of Shanghai.
Meals: B | Accommodations: Shanghai
Day 9: Shanghai City Highlights
Discover the best of Shanghai, starting with a stroll along the Bund to see colonial architecture facing modern skyscrapers. Visit the tranquil Yu Garden and enjoy a dim sum lunch at the Jade Garden Teahouse. After visiting a silk showroom and relaxing at Fuxing Park, conclude your day atop the Shanghai Tower for panoramic city views.
Meals: B, L | Accommodations: Shanghai
Day 10: Departure from Shanghai
Enjoy your final free time in Shanghai for packing or last-minute exploration. Your guide and driver will assist with your transfer to the airport for your homeward flight. Safe travels!
Meals: B
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